Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, block assembly, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (EFI), emissions control systems.
Engine Performance:
Turbocharger system (if applicable), intercooler, boost control, detonation control, ignition system, diagnostic procedures.
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, transaxle, clutch system, driveline components (axles, driveshafts), all-wheel drive (AWD) system (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front suspension (McPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, steering wheel, alignment.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (or drums on some models), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake hydraulics, parking brake, brake component replacement, bleeding procedure.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant charging, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), climate control operation.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, seats, dashboard assembly, exterior trim.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I) system, fault finding procedures, symptom-based diagnostics, troubleshooting charts.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement, tune-up procedures.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component replacement, assembly and disassembly procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon problems, diagnostic flowcharts, pinpoint tests.
Adjustment:
Carburetor adjustments (if applicable), idle speed adjustments, ignition timing adjustments, clutch pedal free play adjustments, parking brake adjustments.
Diagnostics:
OBD-I code retrieval and interpretation, voltage and resistance checks, component testing.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.
Level Of Detail:
Comprehensive, factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Abundant, high-quality diagrams, schematics, exploded views, and illustrations for clarity.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all circuits.
Engine Codes And Variants:
Base models typically featured the 4G63 2.0L SOHC 16-valve engine. Higher performance models, particularly the AWD Turbo variants, utilized the 4G63T 2.0L DOHC 16-valve turbocharged engine.
Base Engine Horsepower:
Approximately 135-140 hp (for 2.0L SOHC NA)
Turbo Engine Horsepower:
Approximately 190-210 hp (for 2.0L DOHC Turbocharged) depending on model and boost levels.
Torque Specifications:
Varies by engine. Turbocharged models produced significantly higher torque, aiding acceleration.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Turbocharger System:
Garrett T25 or MHI TD05 turbocharger (on turbo models), intercooler, wastegate, blow-off valve.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 to 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 to 90,000 miles or 5-7 years for the 4G63/4G63T engines. Failure to replace can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles, or as specified by plug type (e.g., platinum plugs may have longer intervals).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Check owner's manual for precise viscosity based on ambient temperature.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual: GL-4 gear oil. Automatic: ATF SP-II or equivalent.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Turbocharger Failure:
Common on high-mileage turbocharged models if maintenance (especially oil changes and oil quality) is neglected. Over-boosting can also lead to failure.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Tensioner can fail, leading to timing issues or belt slippage, stressing the importance of timely replacement.
Clutch Wear:
Clutches can wear out, particularly in performance-oriented driving scenarios or with frequent stop-and-go traffic.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common issue for vehicles of this era, particularly in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes are susceptible.